The continuous political crises in Albania have overshadowed the country’s progress in the European reform agenda. The public sphere is exhausted from political crises, and clientelism and cronyism are widespread. In the last few years, Albania has witnessed a centralisation of power in the hands of few: politically, through a strong premiership and a weak opposition; and economically, with a widening gap between the very rich and the remainder of the population.
The civil society sector is free and vibrant but it struggles with sustainability and suffers from a lack of professionalism. There is also little cooperation between civil society organisations.
The media landscape is oversaturated and there is significant political and commercial interference with censorship and self-censorship common practice. Journalists have little job security and many work without proper employment contracts.
EED approach and added value
- Support to emerging independent media
- Provide support to individual journalists and bloggers
- Support activism outside of capital Tirana, particularly youth
- Support innovative approaches to civic and media activism
Examples of Supported Initiatives
- Emerging independent online multimedia platforms
- Innovative media tools and non-news media
- New youth activism
